Taormina tours

Things to do in Taormina

Picture yourself in Taormina, where the streets bask in sunlight and the sea breeze carries the scent of jasmine. This town, perched above the coast, combines the charm of ancient history with the buzz of contemporary life. With your local guide, you'll explore beyond the famous views, diving into the heart of Taormina's unique character. Whether you're enjoying a wine tour on Corso Umberto or a private visit to the Teatro Antico, you'll uncover secrets known only to locals. Skip the queues and relish a walking tour where every stone has a story. A tour of Taormina with a local guide offers a memorable dive into Sicily's captivating essence. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Taormina. Explore Taormina your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Taormina tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Taormina for every interest, including: History tours: Step into the ancient theatre to view Mount Etna from the stands while your guide points out Greek and Roman details. Walk Corso Umberto on tours that connect Palazzo Corvaja, the Duomo, and the lush Villa Comunale gardens. Nature and Wildlife tours: Ride to Mount Etna for easy crater walks and a lava cave visit with helmets and lamps provided. Cool off at the Alcantara Gorges to wade in the basalt canyon, or snorkel around Isola Bella’s marine reserve from a small boat. Layover tours: Get picked up at Catania Airport or the Port of Messina, store your luggage in the vehicle, and use a few hours to see the Greek Theatre, sip a granita at Bam Bar, and snap photos from the Isola Bella belvedere. If time allows, add a quick hop to Castelmola for wide views before an on-time drop-off. Taormina’s centre is pedestrian and walkable, with a cable car linking town to Mazzarò and Isola Bella and Interbus coaches serving nearby spots. For steep hills or day trips to Etna and the gorges, you can book chauffeured tours or ask your local guide for tours with private transportation. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Taormina inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Kick off your private walking tour of Taormina and dive into its vibrant neighbourhoods with a local guide by your side. Discover the town’s unique charm and uncover hidden gems that only a local can show you. Here are some neighbourhoods you might want to explore: - Centro Storico: Perfect for cultural tourists, this historical center is a treasure trove of ancient buildings and charming piazzas. Explore the narrow streets filled with cafes and boutiques, and visit the stunning Greek Theatre for a peek into the past. - Isola Bella: Families and multi-generational groups will love this picturesque area. Known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, it's great for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing day by the sea. - Via Teatro Greco: Ideal for those seeking meaningful connections, this bustling street offers a mix of local shops and restaurants. Enjoy a taste of authentic Sicilian cuisine while mingling with locals. Day trip ideas from Taormina From Taormina, look to volcano slopes, baroque cities, and quiet hill towns nearby; these day trips stay short on travel and long on variety, and simple transfers or small-group tours keep it easy. Mount Etna: Europe’s highest active volcano offers craters, lava fields, and wide views, with seasonal cable cars or 4x4 access higher up. Pair it with wineries on Etna’s north side if you like geology and local reds in the same day. Siracusa and Ortigia: Greek history, a fine archaeological park, and a bright island old town with markets and sea air. If ancient theatres, mellow streets, and waterfront snacks appeal, this is a well-rounded day. Catania: A black-lava Baroque core, lively food markets, and bold street eats like arancini. Good for urban energy and architecture, and you can cover key sights without rushing. Savoca and Forza d’Agrò: Hill towns above the coast with stone lanes, quiet churches, and well-known film locations. Come for slow views, simple cafés, and a taste of small-town Sicily. Alcantara Gorge: Basalt walls and a cool river run through a narrow canyon, with short trails and easy viewpoints. Nice on hot days, and a quick add-on to nearby villages if you want light hiking. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Taormina most travellers miss.